From the Wire: Cubs Option LHP Zac Rosscup to Triple-A Iowa

The Cubs optioned LHP Zac Rosscup to Iowa following Sunday’s game against Arizona to make room on the active roster for RHP Kyle Hendricks. The Cubs did not officially recall Hendricks from Iowa yet, but will before Tuesday in order for him to make his second big league start against the Padres.

Rick Renteria announced Sunday that LHP Tsuyoshi Wada would start Wednesday’s game against the Padres. The Cubs will have to clear a spot on the 25-man roster for Wada and if the front office decides to keep Arismendy Alcantara with the big league team, Junior Lake or Mike Olt could be the odd man out.

Zac Rosscup struggled since being recalled from Iowa on July 11. Rosscup appeared in three games and was hit rather hard. Rosscup gave up five run on five hits, one home run, with two walks and five strikeouts (22.50 ERA, 3.50 WHIP). Rosscup’s latest stint with the big league club was his fourth of the season.

By rule, Zac Rosscup has to remain in the minors for 10 days. Unless he is replacing an injured player, Rosscup cannot be recalled until July 31.

With the trade rumors flying and three relievers on the Cubs roster believed to be drawing interest, the Cubs have Blake Parker on the 40-man roster that could be recalled as early as Tuesday. Chris Rusin started Sunday’s game for Iowa and could be a left-handed option out of the bullpen, as well as a swingman. And Kyuji Fujikawa is rehabbing with Kane County trying to work his way back to the big leagues. Fujikawa is currently on the 60-day DL and does not count against the 40-man roster. When Fujikawa is ready to be activated, the Cubs will have to make a move with the 40-man roster to clear a spot for him.